kaydeepoetry:

Man walks into a nightclub
and 48 families lose their loved ones.
Man walks into a nightclub
and pride flags
fly at half mast.
Man walks into a nightclub
and the politics of people’s lives
becomes the focus of
news bulletins and talkshows.
Man walks into a nightclub
and queer men get turned away
from donating blood to their
friends and loved ones.
Man walks into a nightclub
and people start offering
their prayers
like they’ve never
preached hate.
Man walks into a nightclub
and I am reminded
that even in this community
not all are treated equally.
Man walks into a nightclub
and I am crying for the
queer youth who will be too
scared to come out
for fear that
someone might not just
kick them out or reject them
but because they
have reason to fear
for their lives.
Man walks into a nightclub
and I have to call my ex-girlfriend
who lives three states over
and beg her to go home
for the night.
Man walks into a nightclub
and I don’t feel safe 
anywhere 
anymore.
Man walks into a nightclub
and I know that could’ve 
been me.

Now when I walk into a nightclub
I make sure to hold my loved ones
a little closer.

Now when I walk into a nightclub
I make sure to dance
a little harder.

Now when I walk into a nightclub
I make sure
I stop and I remember them
every single time.

//ORLANDO//

-KD